Ultimately: meaning, definitions and examples

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ultimately

[ˈʌltɪmətli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

in the end

Ultimately means finally, in the end, or at the most basic level. It's the last step in a long process that's taken a while to play out.

Synonyms

at last, finally, in the end.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
ultimately	Use in formal and academic contexts to indicate the final result or fundamental reason after considering all possibilities. Ultimately, the success of the project depends on teamwork and communication. The decision was important, but ultimately it was up to the CEO.
finally	Common in both written and spoken English to indicate that something happens after a long time or at the end of a series of events. After weeks of preparation, the conference finally started. She finally decided to accept the job offer.
in the end	Also common in spoken and written English, often used to summarize or conclude a narrative or series of events. In the end, it all worked out for the best. He tried several methods, but in the end, he went back to the original plan.
at last	Used in informal or conversational settings to express relief or satisfaction after a long wait or delay. After hours of waiting, the doctor called my name at last. At last, we have reached our destination.

Examples of usage

Ultimately, it was his decision to make.
The team ultimately won the championship.
She ultimately decided to pursue a career in medicine.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

fundamentally

Ultimately can also mean fundamentally or at the most basic level. It's the underlying cause or reason for something.

Synonyms

basically, essentially, fundamentally.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
ultimately	Use when discussing the final outcome or conclusion after considering different factors or stages. Ultimately, it is your decision whether to accept the job offer or not. The team worked hard and ultimately won the championship.
fundamentally	Use when discussing the basic structure or underlying principles of something, often to highlight critical aspects that influence everything else. The two theories are fundamentally different in their approach. She believes that education is fundamentally important for societal progress.
basically	Use to simplify or summarize a complex situation in the most straightforward manner, often used in informal speech. Basically, he just wants everyone to get along and work together. The instructions were basically telling us to restart the machine.
essentially	Use to describe the most important aspect or true nature of something, emphasizing its core characteristics. Essentially, this policy aims to improve customer satisfaction. The book is essentially about overcoming life's challenges.

Examples of usage

Ultimately, it's a matter of personal choice.
The problem is ultimately rooted in a lack of communication.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'ultimatus,' which is the past participle of 'ultimare,' meaning 'to come to the end.'
It has been used in English since the early 15th century, originally implying the 'last' or 'final' position.
The term has evolved to signify not just finality, but also the essence or most important aspect of something.

Philosophy

In philosophical discussions, the term often explores the meaning or purpose of existence.
Many scholars debate what is 'ultimate reality,' considering concepts beyond the physical world.
Existentialism uses 'ultimately' to discuss individual purpose, emphasizing personal meaning in one’s life choices.

Psychology

In decision-making, understanding the ultimate goal can shape the choices individuals make.
Cognitive psychology considers how the anticipation of ultimate outcomes influences behavior and motivation.
The idea of 'ultimate concerns' in psychology refers to fundamental issues that guide human motivation and mental wellbeing.

Literature

Literary works often explore themes related to ultimate truths or the consequences of actions towards an ending.
Many authors use the concept of 'ultimately' to create impactful conclusions that reflect broader life lessons.
Philosophical novels frequently question what is truly ultimate in human experience, challenging readers' perceptions.

Pop Culture

The phrase 'ultimately, we all want to be happy' is common in many motivational talks and self-help books.
In film and television, characters often face ultimate decisions that change their lives, emphasizing dramatic stakes.
Video games frequently use 'ultimate' moves or abilities, showcasing a character's most powerful option at the climax of action.

Translations

Translations of the word "ultimately" in other languages:

🇵🇹 finalmente

🇮🇳 अंततः

🇩🇪 letztendlich

🇮🇩 akhirnya

🇺🇦 зрештою

🇵🇱 ostatecznie

🇯🇵 最終的に

🇫🇷 finalement

🇪🇸 finalmente

🇹🇷 sonunda

🇰🇷 궁극적으로

🇸🇦 في النهاية

🇨🇿 nakonec

🇸🇰 nakoniec

🇨🇳 最终

🇸🇮 končno

🇮🇸 að lokum

🇰🇿 ақырында

🇬🇪 საბოლოოდ

🇦🇿 nəhayət

🇲🇽 finalmente

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,823, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.

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2820 priority
2821 shock
2822 adopt
2823 ultimately
2824 bird
2825 tank
2826 intermediate
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